We have always followed and will continue to follow Standard Universal Precautions to protect patients and staff from the many infectious diseases the we are all potentially exposed to on a daily basis. Among other steps, this includes cleaning all chairs, countertops, etc with a powerful disinfectant after each patient visit, and all instruments used in the mouth are disposed of, or sterilized via steam autoclave.
With the COVID 19 virus, we are taking the following additional steps to ensure everyone’s safety:
*Patients are pre-screened with a short medical questionnaire in advance of their appointment. Any patient or staff member with symptoms of COVID-19 or who have been in close contact with someone with symptoms will follow the guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for medical evaluation and quarantine. Patients with COVID symptoms in need of urgent or emergency care are referred to the Florida Department of Health 561-547-6800 (Palm Beach.Florida health.gov> locations).
*We are utilizing Tele-dentistry when possible. It has been most helpful for patients with toothaches, broken teeth or missing fillings, and our Invisalign patients. If you feel this may be helpful in your situation, just call the office and we will inform you of the procedures to follow.
*To maintain social distancing we are not using the waiting room. Instead we are asking patients to call or text when they arrive and wait outside or in their cars. On entry, we ensure each patient’s temperature is normal prior to escorting them directly to their treatment room. Only the patient enters the office, unless the patient needs assistance, or is a minor.
*We encourage all patients to wear a mask into the office, and all staff will be wearing masks. In addition, all clinical staff will be wearing N95 masks, gowns and face shields.
*In addition to sterilizing or disposing of any instrumentation used in the mouth, and wiping down with surface disinfectant all operatories, we are also using ultraviolet light sterilization of all surfaces between patients.
*Antibacterial hand sanitizer is readily available throughout the office.
*We are closely monitoring updates from the Florida Department of Health, the CDC, and the American Dental Association regarding COVID-19. We will continue to seek guidance from these agencies and public health officials, and we will update our policy as new information becomes available . We will remain committed to keeping our office a safe place for all.